Housing shortage bites for Dublin businesses

Two out of every three Dublin businesses have either lost employees or had prospective employees decline a job offer due to the lack of affordable housing.

This is according to Dublin Chamber’s latest survey for Q1 2024 shows that the availability of affordable housing remains the greatest concern for Dublin businesses.

About two out of every three firms (62%) have lost employees or had prospective employees not take a job due to lack of affordable housing in Dublin.

The lack of affordable housing, in turn, makes it difficult for firms to attract, retain and upskill staff.

Aebhric McGibney, Director of Public and International Affairs, commented: “Despite the extensive and substantial government supports to promote the construction of affordable housing, the volume of construction is insufficient to meet demand.

“Government should revisit the effective ban on building in certain parts of the Greater Dublin Area, which are based on outdated population figures, and encourage local authorities to provide for more residential zoned land in towns that are well served by public transport options.

“In addition, transport planning for the region needs to be revised for the region to keep pace with housing and population growth, with a view to bringing forward public transport services and projects that have been placed on the long finger in existing plans.”

The Q1 Business Outlook Survey shows that 30% of firms have temporarily subsidised or provided accommodation for employees to allow them to take a job in Dublin.

Flexible and remote working remaining the most effective measure in attracting and retaining staff, followed by competitive salaries.

“Housing has long been a simmering issue for businesses, now this has taken a turn into the realms of businesses subsidising housing to retain and attract talent in Dublin.

“This should never be the case, and will have adverse effects on Dublin being a competitive place to start and indeed grow a business.

“Dublin Chamber will continue to work closely with key stakeholders in Government, The Civil Service and in our four Local Authorities to ensure that Dublin remains a city where business can thrive”, Mr McGibney concluded.